It’s not an exact science, but word on the fall foliage watch street is that peak colors will appear in Leelanau mid-October this year…so how to best go out and experience all that colorful and autumnal goodness?? The better question is how to pare down to fit as many options in as possible?! There are oh-so-many all month long, from scenic drives to fall festivals to vineyards and restaurants with outdoor firepits to spooky Halloween fun. Giddy up and as the leaves pile up on the ground, pile up spectacular and spooktacular Up North memories with some of these fall favorites…
Scenic Drives
Whichever which way you roam, the blues of the lakes and the yellow, orange, gold, and rust of the trees will astound. Without question, we love the loop around Leelanau, but M22 meanders down through Benzie and Manistee counties, as well, along Lake Michigan and other inland lakes – and stops such as the Arcadia Bluffs scenic boardwalk will take your breath away. Check out the suggested routes in Leelanau and surrounding areas.
Grand Traverse Commons Tours – Spooky!
To get into the Halloween spirit, there is nothing like an Asylum Twilight Tour at Traverse City’s former state hospital. If spooky isn’t your jam or you need to explore during the daytime hours, there are a host of other tours offered year-round: guided historic walking tours, photography tours, private golf cart tours, taste of the village tours, and historical presentations. The Commons are vast and beautiful – with over 90 spires! – and include restaurants, Left Foot Charley Tasting Room and Barrel Room, shops, and more. There is also a Fall Fido Fest on October 12 with a pet costume contest and dog agility course – - “paw-some”! - check it out!
Cherry Republic – for All The Things!
Cherry makes everything cheery – year-round - but starting October 6 and continuing each Sunday during the “off” season, trivia team competition returns from 5-7 pm in the Public House. Come taste food samples in the Great Hall retail store (open daily) and sample over 20 wines in The Winery (open Friday-Sunday, 11 am to 6 pm) before the healthy but friendly competition. The delicious food and beer, wine, and cider, only helps your game!
Interlochen List of Fall Concerts in Northern Michigan
Our world renowned jewel of arts in Interlochen hosts all kinds of performing arts, and also kindly creates a list of all fall concerts in Northern Michigan to benefit us all. Peruse and partake!
River Club Glen Arbor – Michigan-Michigan State Tailgate – October 26
It goes without saying that the unrivaled rivalry between the Wolverines and the Spartans adds passion to our fall festivities – and this year the tailgate party in Glen Arbor takes place at River Club on the banks of the Crystal River. Belly up to four outdoor tv’s, Mexican fare, full bar offerings of wine, beer, cider, cocktails, and N.A. options, and putt-putt. Go Blue, Go Green! (Also belly up for other collegiate football, Lions/NFL, and Tigers/MLB games!)
You can enjoy dinner at the Inn featuring our chef prepared entree of the day as a $35/person add-on to your stay. Email info@sleepingbearinn.org for menu information and to make your reservation, 3 day advance notice required please.